Student Wellbeing 

The holiday season is just around the corner, and while it's often seen as a time of joy, it can also bring its fair share of stress. We get it – school's hectic, and now there's this mix of holiday excitement and expectations. Here are some tips to help you make the most of the festive season while keeping your mental and emotional wellbeing front and centre.

1. Embrace Gratitude:

Life can get pretty wild, especially during the holidays. Take a few minutes each day to think about the good stuff – the friends who make you laugh, the moments that make you smile. Whether it's a quick journal entry or just a mental note, embracing gratitude can give you a boost of positivity.

2. Manage Expectations:

Okay, real talk: not everything during the holidays is going to be perfect. Plans might change, and that's totally okay. Instead of stressing about things not going exactly as planned, focus on the fun and laughter. Embrace the imperfect moments; they're often the ones you remember the most.

3. Practice Self-Care:

Between school projects and family gatherings, it's easy to forget about yourself. Don't. Take a breather – read a chapter of that book you've been eyeing, go for a walk to clear your mind, or just chill out. Self-care isn't selfish; it's your secret weapon for keeping the stress levels in check.

4. Connect with Others:

The holidays are about people, right? Reach out to your friends and family. Share your excitement or talk about what's on your mind. It's cool to let people know you're there for them too. Connecting with others can turn the holiday season into a team effort of good vibes.

5. Set Boundaries:

Got a ton of invites but feeling stretched thin? It's perfectly fine to say no. Seriously. Know your limits and make sure you're not burning the candle at both ends. Setting boundaries gives you the space you need to enjoy the season at your own pace.

6. Stay Mindful:

Mindfulness might sound a bit zen, but it's pretty simple. Take a few minutes each day to just breathe. Try meditation, focus on your senses during a walk, or find a mindfulness app that works for you. These little breaks can seriously help when things get overwhelming.

7. Seek Support if Needed:

You're not alone in this. If the holidays are hitting you harder than expected, reach out. Friends, family, or someone you trust at school – there's always someone willing to listen. And hey, professionals are around too if things get really tough.

So, there you have it – your guide to owning the holiday season while keeping your head in the right space. Remember, it's not about the perfect plan; it's about the perfectly imperfect moments.

Wishing you a holiday season filled with good vibes, awesome people, and a whole lot of self-love.

If you find yourself struggling during the festive season, remember that help is always available. In Melbourne and Knox City Council, there are various resources designed to support young people:

Headspace Knox: Located in Knox City, Headspace provides mental health support for young people aged 12 to 25. They offer a range of services, including counselling, education, and employment support. Visit their website at Headspace Knox for more information.

Orygen Youth Health: Orygen is a youth mental health organization in Melbourne that focuses on early intervention and youth-friendly mental health services. They offer support for a range of mental health issues. Check out Orygen Youth Health for details on their services.

Melbourne Youth Support Service (MYSS): MYSS is dedicated to supporting young people facing homelessness or at risk of becoming homeless. They provide assistance with housing, education, and personal development. More information can be found on the MYSS website.

Knox Youth Services: Knox City Council offers youth services that aim to support young people in the local community. They provide various programs, events, and resources. Explore the offerings of Knox Youth Services on the Knox City Council website.

eHeadspace: If you prefer online support, eHeadspace is the digital platform of Headspace that provides confidential and free online or telephone mental health support for young people. Visit eHeadspace to access their services.

Lifeline Melbourne: Lifeline offers 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention services. If you or someone you know needs urgent help, don't hesitate to call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or visit their website at Lifeline Australia.

Remember, seeking support is a sign of strength, and there are people ready to listen and help you navigate challenges during the holiday season and beyond.

Breakfast Club - Now at Wellbeing

Breakfast Club is open to all students so please join us 8am - 8:30am Tuesdays and Thursdays at Wellbeing for some free healthy food to start your day!

Youth Support services 

headspace: visit headspace.org.au to find your nearest centre or call headspace on 

1800 650 890.

Kids Helpline: 

1800 55 1800 or kidshelpline.com.au 

ReachOut: reachout.com.au 

SANE Australia: 1800 187 263 or sane.org

National 24/7 crisis services 

Lifeline:13 11 14 or lifeline.org.au 

Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467 or suicidecallbackservice.org.au 

beyondblue: 

1300 224 636 or beyondblue.org.au

Student Wellbeing Team

Email: wellbeing@wantirnacollege.vic.edu.au

Ashleigh Bibby - Leader of Wellbeing

Guiseppe Relia – Wellbeing Coordinator 

Talea-Jane Simpson – School Counsellor

Lea Marrison - Mental Health Practitioner

Tajinder Wulff - Mental Health Practitioner